Bikes, BBQs, beer... they're some of the best things about summer. And while summer may feel a long way off, the new Mad Summer Hare Sportive in September offers something to look forward to in these icy weeks of winter.
Launched last week by the team behind the sell-out Mad March Hare Sportive, the first edition of the Mad Summer Hare will take place in the Midlands on 3rd September 2017.
The 100-mile route leads riders through rural Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire and includes four iconic Cotswold climbs in Snowshill, Saintbury, Dovers and Campden.
In addition to the support and sustenance riders will receive during the ride itself, they can also look forward to a complimentary BBQ and real ale bar at the finish line.
"We've been asked so many times to organise a second event in the Midlands," say organisers Dan and Corinne Fox, "but we would only do it if we could make it different from all the many other events out there.
"As keen riders ourselves it came down to 'what do we want from a great bike ride?' and the answers are obvious - a scenic yet challenging route, great signage, really good food and a proper pint (or two) to celebrate with - so that's what we're doing!"
Both Dan and his wife Corinne have carried out meticulous research in planning the new event (and not just beer testing!). They've come up with two separate routes, both of which offer a significant challenge to even experienced sportive cyclists.
The first route has been dubbed "The Full Monty" and its 102 miles features 5,800 feet of climbing, taking in all four of the iconic Cotswold climbs. This will be a serious test of the legs with two Cat 3 and two Cat 4 climbs within 40 miles.
For riders looking for something slightly less ambitious, the "Base" route will span 72 miles and feature 3,500 feet of climbing. With each climb being its own independent loop, "Base" riders will still be free to 'opt in' for any extra climbs if they're feeling bold on the day.
"The end of the summer season is when the legs and lungs should be at their peak," says Dan, "so we've set a route that is not only beautiful but will challenge any rider, and yet is within reach for most with some training.
"It's not meant to be easy, but that's what makes the finish (plus your BBQ and Beer) taste so sweet."
With quiet, scenic roads in every direction, having the HQ at Umberslade Farm Park in rural Warwickshire will be a great place for riders to wash down their free BBQ with a selection of real ales and beers which will be run in conjunction with a local brewery (details to be announced).
Umberslade Farm Park is also a great location for the family to spend an afternoon so whilst riders are in the saddle the family can be enjoying the day visiting animals and be there to cheer riders in.
The other half of the organising duo, Corinne is confident that the Summer Sportive is ideally placed in the calendar:
"With six months between the March event and this one, riders will have had plenty of opportunity to up their fitness and take on The Full Monty! Also, keen riders will know that this event takes place three weeks before Velo Birmingham, making it the ideal 'warm up' for that event."
Registrations open on Friday 27th January for previous riders of the Mad March Hare and subscribers to the website who will have an exclusive 48 hour window to enter at the early-bird rate of £27.
With a limit of 1,000 spaces available, Dan and Corinne warn that the Mad Summer Hare is likely to sell out quickly. For more information and to book your place, visit www.madsummerharesportive.co.uk.
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